Cllrs claims planning impasse over veterinary practice 'smacks of discrimination'

A Mayo county councillor has claimed that refusal to grant planning permission to a veterinary practice "smacks of discrimination", writes Keith Bourke. 

Westport-based Independent Cllr John O’Mallley levelled the accusation at the recent monthly meeting of the local authority. He said a West Mayo veterinary practice has been continually blocked from securing planning for a new larger premises at a variety of locations.

Cllr O’Malley said when they applied at one site they were told that planning could not be granted as the practice was deemed "agricultural" but when they sought planning at an alternative location the business was told they were deemed "commercial" and were again refused.

"That’s hard to believe. It’s something like a game children would be playing at school but that did happen,” said Cllr O’Malley, who is a farmer and knows the veterinary practice.

He said the saga has been ongoing for 15 years.

“This veterinary practice services farmers from the far end of Killadoon, outside Louisburgh, to Leenane to Sraheen, outside Aghagower, to Islandeady, down through Newport, Glenhest, Mulranny, Achill, Ballycroy and back up then through Kilmeena and the surrounding areas of Westport. We, as farmers, are very lucky to have a practice that serves such a big area,” said Cllr O’Malley.

The Independent councillor said the affair "smacks of discrimination".

Cllr O'Malley implored the council's chief executive Kevin Kelly to step in and finally resolve the long-running matter.